The Deserted Village is a poem by Oliver Goldsmith published in 1770. It is a work of social commentary, and condemns rural depopulation and the pursuit of excessive wealth.
“Her modest looks the cottage might adorn,
Sweet as the primrose peeps beneath the thorn.”
Source: The Deserted Village (1770), Line 329.
“And, ev'n while fashion's brightest arts decoy,
The heart distrusting asks, if this be joy.”
Source: The Deserted Village (1770), Line 263.
“To me more dear, congenial to my heart,
One native charm, than all the gloss of art.”
Source: The Deserted Village (1770), Line 253.
“How happy he who crowns in shades like these,
A youth of labour with an age of ease.”
Source: The Deserted Village (1770), Line 99.
“Truth from his lips prevailed with double sway,
And fools, who came to scoff, remained to pray.”
Source: The Deserted Village (1770), Line 179.
